Beat the blues in red

SIX OF THE BEST

1 Patent Hobbs ankle boots, pounds 125 Pointy side-zipped ankle boots that would jolly up the dullest of winter outfits. From branches of Hobbs nationwide (enquiries on 0171-586 5550)

2 Hobbs patent pumps, pounds 72.99 Demure pumps with ribbon trim. Wear with a flirty skirt or Capri trousers. From branches of Hobbs nationwide (enquiries as above)

3 Warehouse snakeskin Kelly bag, pounds 14.99; Otto Glanz patent belt, pounds 16.95; La Bonia leather gloves, pounds 39 These accessories could be the finishing touch to a new outfit, or update a tired wardrobe. The bag is from branches of Warehouse nationwide (enquiries on 0181-910 1400); the belt from major department stores (enquiries on 0181-365 1711); the gloves from Harvey Nichols, Knightsbridge, London SW3 (0171-235 3000)

4 Merino wool Joseph dress, pounds 199 Wear this prim and buttoned-up or unbuttoned and sexy. The shape is unfussy, but with a hint of detailing that makes it more interesting than a simple shirt dress. From Joseph, 23 Old Bond Street, London W1 and 26 Sloane Street, SW1 (enquiries on 0171-736 25220)

5 Dorothy Perkins mohair mix jacket, pounds 65 This cropped double-breasted peacoat is incredibly comfortable but its colour prevents it being too cutesy. A practical length for those of us susceptible to trapping our winter coats in car doors. From city-centre branches of Dorothy Perkins nationwide (enquiries on 0171-291 2604).

6 French Connection sleeveless polo neck, pounds 55 So many tops and dresses are sleeveless this winter, partly due to the fact that coats are meant to be shown off rather than left on the coat rack. This is in 70 per cent angora, 30 per cent nylon and comes in assorted colours. From branches of French Connection nationwide (enquiries on 0171- 580 2507)